A one-man show that shows the transformation of a lost soul in one week, “Heroes and Other Strangers†isn’t for everyone, due to its somewhat confusing narrative. However, those that can look past the structural problems will find a coming of age story with staying power.
Any show of this type needs a strong performance from its star and Zac Jaffee delivers. Although it’s difficult at times to tell what character he’s playing, due mainly to the style of the script, he’s emotional and passionate enough to suspend your disbelief. Playing everyone from stoners and middle-aged Jewish men to the main character, a 21-year-old slacker, who works in a photography store in the village, Jaffee is simultaneously, witty, charming and lost.
The main character of the performance, Lenny, is easily comparable to lyrics in a Pink Floyd song. “A lost soul, swimming in a fish bowl,†Lenny loses his job and is thrust into a situation he knows he’s not ready for. However, in several beautifully written scenes, he rises to the challenge and tries to complete his task.
On a cross-country hunt for two young girls who have ran away, Lenny isn’t Dick Tracy, but in his own way, he’s able to be the person the situation calls for him to be.
That, essentially is what this performance is all about, looking at oneself and demanding the most out of life and what it offers. Especially when the odds aren’t in your favor and things look grimmer than ever.
This message could have been so much clearly had Jaffee’s script was tighter. Reading more like a story than a play, Jaffee’s narration is often haphazard. While at times it feels like he’s reading the script and acting it out at the same time, the overall precision of the performance was lacking. Regardless, the raw and gritty approach, coupled with the ‘60s and ‘70s soundtrack provides the type of theatre experience that doesn’t come a long quite often.
Nevertheless, it would be hard to say that the show is for everyone. Between the experimental script and multi-faceted plot that takes its time to truly unfold, casual theatre buffs with only a passing love for ‘60s pop culture, noir and the medium itself won’t leave happy. However, if you appreciate an eclectic and different theatre experience, “Heroes and Other Strangers†will challenge your mind and soothe your soul.
While many characters in one-man shows find the answers they need by the end of it all, the process and tribulations Lenny suffers through not only make him a man by the final curtain, they’ll make his journey personable and memorable.
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